We Need to Talk
Emily paced around the perfectly furnished living room of their new home. It had taken over a year for everything to be the way she wanted it. So much time and energy had been put into each and every item and design aspect of the home she shared with her new husband. They'd moved in right after their honeymoon, and she'd gone straight to work trying to make a home he'd be proud of. And finally, it was finished. Everything was perfect. Now if only the maid would stop moving things. She sighed, wondering if perhaps she should fire her. But she would worry about that later. She had other things on her mind now.
The front door opened at five thirty on the dot. "Emily, I'm home!" Richard called out.
With a deep breath, she pasted a smile on her face and walked calmly out to the foyer. "How was your day?" she asked as she approached him.
He removed his coat and hung it on the ornate rack by the door. He placed his briefcase on the side table before kissing his wife on the cheek. "My day was quite boring, unfortunately. I was in meetings all day, and at no point was I given the opportunity to contribute."
"I'm sorry to hear that. Perhaps you should talk to Floyd. He seems to be moving up in the company rather quickly. He might have some suggestions on how you can make yourself invaluable."
Richard smiled. "A wonderful suggestion. I'll talk to Floyd tomorrow." He placed his arm around her waist as they walked into the living room. "How about we have a cocktail and you tell me all about your day?"
"What would you like? Scotch? A martini?"
"I'll have one of whatever you're having," he replied.
Emily paused awkwardly. "I…I won't be having anything."
"Only wine with dinner, then?"
"No, nothing with dinner."
He frowned. "Emily, is everything alright?"
"I think we need to talk."
They sat down together on the sofa. Richard took her hands in his. "What's going on?" he asked tentatively.
"I went to the doctor today."
"Oh no, what's wrong? Are you sick?" he asked in a slight panic.
Emily shook her head. "No, I'm not sick," she assured him. She paused, pressing her lips together. She wasn't sure whether or not to smile. "I'm pregnant."
Richard's expression immediately changed from worry to elation. "Emily!" He stood up and pulled her with him so he could take her in his arms. "Oh, this is wonderful!" he exclaimed. He hugged her tight for a moment before leaning down to kiss her.
Emily began to laugh through his kisses. He was so happy. She hadn't expected him to be this excited. His good mood was infectious. And all her stress and worry melted away, and she allowed herself to be blissfully happy to start a family with her husband who she loved so very much.